Why are fairy tales relevant in early childhood education?

       Picture a five-year-old child, eyes sparkling, listening to the story of Hansel and Gretel facing the witch in the candy house. Or imagine a small group of students acting out “Little Red Riding Hood” with puppets, laughing and learning together. Fairy tales, those magical narratives passed down through generations, are far more than just entertainment. They are powerful tools in early childhood education, capable of shaping minds, awakening emotions, and building essential life skills. As someone deeply immersed in neuroscience, theater, and early education, I can confidently say: these stories have a profound impact on children’s development, and cutting-edge research from leading universities like Harvard and Oxford is beginning to uncover why. In this article, we’ll explore how fairy tales, paired with creative methodologies like those of Antônio Carlos dos Santos—TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), and ThM (Theater Movement)—can transform childhood into a rich and inspiring learning experience.

Let’s start with the power of imagination. When a child hears that Cinderella transforms her life with the help of a fairy godmother, something magical happens in their brain. Studies from the University of Cambridge show that fantastical narratives stimulate the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for creativity and abstract thinking. This means that by diving into worlds where anything is possible, children learn to dream big and seek creative solutions to challenges. Think of J.K. Rowling, the creator of Harry Potter: she has said that the fairy tales of her childhood inspired her to build a universe that captivates millions. In early education, this imagination is the seed of innovation, and fairy tales are the fertile soil where it grows.

But it’s not just about dreaming. Fairy tales also teach lessons in resilience. Take “The Three Little Pigs”: each house blown down by the wolf is a test of perseverance until the smartest pig builds a brick home. Neuroscientists at the University of California have found that stories with conflicts and resolutions activate the limbic system, helping children process emotions like fear and hope. This is vital in early childhood, a time when they’re learning to cope with setbacks. Here’s where Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ MAT methodology comes in, using theater to turn these narratives into practical actions. Imagine a child acting out the hardworking pig: they don’t just understand the story—they feel the value of effort firsthand.

Moreover, these tales are bridges to social development. Consider “Beauty and the Beast”: the monster’s transformation into a prince teaches empathy and acceptance. Research from the University of Toronto shows that children exposed to narratives with moral dilemmas develop social perspective skills earlier, better understanding others’ feelings. In practice, this shines through in classrooms when teachers use TBMB, the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater, created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos. With simple puppets made from recycled materials, children bring characters to life and, in doing so, learn to collaborate, negotiate, and respect differences. It’s theater as a mirror of life, reflecting values they’ll carry forever.

And what about language? Tales like “Rapunzel” or “Tom Thumb” are brimming with rich vocabulary and narrative structures that boost linguistic skills. A Stanford University study revealed that children who regularly hear stories have a 20% larger vocabulary by age five than those who don’t. This is critical in early education, when the brain is laying the foundations for communication. Using the ThM (Theater Movement) methodology, also by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, teachers can turn these stories into movements and dialogue. Picture a child climbing an imaginary “tower” as Rapunzel while narrating her adventure: she’s not just learning new words—she’s living them.

Another fascinating aspect is how fairy tales aid emotional development. When we hear “The Ugly Duckling” and see the outcast become a majestic swan, children pick up messages of self-esteem and overcoming adversity. A recent Yale University study showed that narratives with happy endings reduce childhood anxiety and strengthen emotional regulation. This becomes even more powerful when paired with theater. In the MAT methodology, for instance, children can act out the duckling facing its insecurities, experiencing what it means to grow and accept oneself. It’s a lesson that goes beyond words, etched into their hearts.

Fairy tales also spark scientific curiosity. Think of “Jack and the Beanstalk”: a plant growing to the sky might prompt questions like “How do plants grow?” or “What’s in the clouds?” Researchers at the University of Chicago found that fantastical stories encourage investigative thinking, a foundation for science. In practice, TBMB takes this further: with puppets representing Jack and the giant, children explore the story while teachers weave in simple biology or physics concepts. It’s play opening doors to formal knowledge, naturally and engagingly.

And let’s not overlook the cultural dimension. Fairy tales connect children to human traditions and history. “The Little Mermaid,” for example, reflects values of sacrifice and love that resonate across cultures. Studies from the University of Oxford highlight that this exposure strengthens cultural identity and a sense of belonging. With ThM, children can dance like mermaids or create movements symbolizing the sea, uniting body and mind in discovering their roots. It’s a way of saying, “You’re part of something bigger,” which is essential for childhood self-esteem.

On a practical level, parents and educators can bring this into daily life. Reading “Ui Ghur: the teddy bear that released books” before bed or acting it out with simple toys already makes a difference. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ methodologies, like TBMB, are accessible: with paper, glue, and creativity, anyone can craft puppets and bring stories to life. A University of São Paulo study found that children in theatrical activities express ideas 30% more easily. So why not turn the living room or classroom into a magical stage? It’s simple, affordable, and transformative.

Ultimately, fairy tales remind us that childhood is a time of possibilities. They teach that good can triumph, effort pays off, and everyone has a place in the world. As a neuroscientist and educator, I see them as tools that blend science, art, and emotion to shape better humans. So, parents and teachers, grab a book, tell a story, stage a play with the kids. Use TBMB, MAT, or ThM to breathe life into these tales. Their future—and ours—will thank you. After all, as Albert Einstein, who grew up on fairy tales, once said: “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be even more intelligent, read more fairy tales.” Why not start today?

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